Alexander Barnes

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Education Background: B.S. in Community Development from Temple University

How did you get interested in your field?
I’ve always been drawn to history, but I wanted to find a way to apply that passion in a more practical and community-centered way. At the same time, I’ve always believed in a life of service and in uplifting communities like the ones I come from. Community development and later, economic development, became a natural fit because it allows me to connect historical context with real-world planning tools to improve people’s lives and expand opportunity.

What was your background prior to coming to Penn?
Before Penn, I spent several years at Amtrak in the Real Estate Department, where I worked on eminent domain, regulatory compliance, agreement drafting, and supporting day-to-day real estate operations. That experience provided me with a strong foundation in how large organizations manage their property and infrastructure. I also have experience in program management and capital planning, particularly in long-term investment and resource allocation, which sparked my interest in how cities and institutions make decisions that shape communities for decades.

Why did you choose Penn?
I chose Penn because of the professors, concentrations, and flexibility of the program. The range of courses available has allowed me to shape an academic path that directly aligns with my career ambitions in economic and community development. Beyond the classroom, Penn’s connections through faculty, alumni, and professional networks have opened doors to opportunities that push my learning beyond theory. And of course, Philadelphia is home for me. I’ve lived in several neighborhoods here, went to undergrad here, and now grad school too. I love being able to study planning in a city that is both complex and deeply personal to me.

What has been your favorite class so far?
One standout class has been Quantitative Planning Analysis Methods, a core course that laid the groundwork for nearly everything else I’ve studied. It was fascinating to learn how demographic shifts, economic trends, and land use patterns are modeled to inform planning decisions. I especially enjoyed connecting the technical aspects, such as population forecasting and economic modeling, to the lived reality of how neighborhoods change over time. That class helped me see how data can be a powerful tool in shaping equitable development.

What are you learning right now that will help you in the future? 
I’m currently taking Urban Fiscal Policy, which examines the fiscal health of cities, covering everything from schools and policing to tax structures, budget balancing, and the fundamental question of why cities exist and how they sustain themselves. Having a working understanding of municipal finance is essential for my future career in economic development. It gives me the ability to evaluate how resources flow, where constraints exist, and how cities can create policies that balance the needs of residents, businesses, and long-term growth.

What do you like best about Philadelphia?
First and foremost, my family and community. Philadelphia is my hometown, and I’ve grown up experiencing its neighborhoods, cultures, and people. I love how much there is to do, from taking a walk along one of our trails to exploring seasonal fairs, vendor markets, and cultural festivals. And the food scene is incredible; you can find almost any cuisine or fusion you want. I’m excited to see Philly continue to grow its culinary reputation (I’m still waiting on that Michelin star restaurant here!). Philadelphia is also a city that constantly reinvents itself while holding on to its rich history, which is what makes it such an exciting place to study planning.

What kinds of activities and/or organizations are you involved in?
I’m deeply involved in Penn’s planning and graduate student community:

• Student Planning Association (SPA) – I currently serve as Co-Chair. SPA is the graduate planning student organization at Penn, focused on professional development, networking, and building community among planning students. We host events ranging from career panels to social gatherings, and serve as a bridge between students, faculty, and the planning field.
• Black Designers Society (BDS) – I serve as Co-President. BDS is a student-led group that uplifts and creates space for Black students across design disciplines. We focus on professional mentorship, peer support, and celebrating the contributions of Black designers and planners.
• Black Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (BGAPSA) – I serve as VP of Marketing and PR. BGAPSA is a university-wide group representing Black graduate students across Penn’s schools, advocating for our needs and hosting events to strengthen community and visibility on campus.

What are your career ambitions?
My long-term goal is to serve as a Director of Economic Development for a mid-sized to large city. I aim to work at the intersection of policy, planning, and investment, helping cities utilize their resources strategically to strengthen local economies, foster equitable growth, and support both residents and businesses. Over time, I envision myself continuing to grow into public-sector leadership roles where I can help shape the direction of cities, particularly in areas such as inclusive economic development and community-centered planning.